Arsenal midfielder Max Dow — who was only 16 years old when he made his second start of the season against Fleetwood — has been handed a three‑match ban after the club’s appeal of his sending‑off was rejected. The 16‑year‑old was dismissed in the 85th minute of the Carabao Cup tie after a heavy challenge from Fleetwood’s Harrison Neal. Although Dow did not fully kick out, his foot made contact with Neal, prompting the referee to award a straight red card for violent conduct. The match ended 1‑1, with Fleetwood winning 5‑3 on penalties.
Arsenal lodged an appeal on Wednesday, arguing that the contact was accidental. The Football Association’s disciplinary panel upheld the original decision, confirming the three‑match suspension. This is Dow ’s second red card this month; he had also been sent off while representing England at the under‑19 level.
When Dow was shown the red card, manager Mikel Arteta gave him a sharp look and appeared to berate the young player. Arteta later explained that the team had been told to “respect the game and dominate emotionally,” and that the dismissal was a clear violation of those instructions. The Gunners are already short on wing options, with Bukayo Saka, Christos Tzolis and Noni Madueke all injured.
Arsenal will return to Premier League action on Sunday, travelling to Liverpool. With Dow out, the squad will have to rely on other options to cover the flanks, a challenge the club will face in the upcoming fixtures.